A Day in the Life of a Venture Capitalist

This note describes the tasks that fill the working day of a venture capitalist. Those functions involved in investing (deal sourcing, due diligence, and related tasks) often receive the most attention from students. However, interviews with experienced venture capitalists found that as much or more time is spent working with existing portfolio companies. This note provides insight into each aspect of a venture capitalist’s job: making investments, working with portfolio companies, and managing the venture capital firm as a business. The note is written heavily based on quotes, allowing experienced venture capitalists to describe their activities in their own words.